6 Helpful Ways To Manage Oily Hair

If you’re someone who frequently suffers from oily hair, you know how frustrating it can be trying to maintain your hair without looking like you need a shower 24/7. It’s hard not to envy those who have naturally dry locks, but as someone who is constantly plagued with excess oil, it can be helpful to know how to keep the greasiness at bay.

People with oily skin are also unfortunately more likely prone to oily hair. The sebaceous gland in your scalp is responsible for oil production, and your hair type, natural hormones, and beauty routine can all have an effect on oil levels.

Taking the right steps can help keep these levels at bay — or at least hide or diminish the appearance of oily hair.

If you want to get your oily hair under control, try these six ways to manage greasy locks.

1. Use Dry Shampoo Powder

Dry shampoo is great for days in between washing when your hair won’t seem to stop looking oily. Dry shampoo powder, rather than dry shampoo spray,  not only soaks up any excess oil, but also adds volume to your hair. If you don’t have any dry shampoo on hand, baby powder works as well.

Acure Organics Dry Shampoo, $9.99

2. Switch To A Wide-Tooth Comb

Using a regular brush more easily distributes your hair’s oil, but a wide-tooth comb well prevent oil from spreading. If you do use a brush, opt for a boar-bristle brush, as it prevents oil buildup at the scalp.

Breezelike No Static Wide Tooth Comb, $14

3. Skip A Wash

You might feel like you need to wash your hair all the time because it’s so oily, but washing your hair too often strips your hair of its natural oils, which can cause your scalp to produce more oil. Instead of washing every day, try to go every other day, and use some of that dry shampoo in the mean time.

4. Use Conditioner Just On Ends

Many people have oily hair on top, but dry ends at the bottom. If this is the case, use conditioner on the shaft and ends, but don’t use any on the top. Or, switch to a lighter conditioner that doesn’t make your hair feel greasy.

Just Natural Oily Hair Conditioner, $23.99

5. Try A Clarifying Shampoo

Using a clarifying shampoo removes buildup from your hair, including excess oil. This type of shampoo should be used only once a week, as it can be harsh on your hair, but it gets rid of any remaining products that could have lingering oils.

Paul Mitchell Clarifying Shampoo, $9

6. Eat A Healthy Diet

Just like diet plays a role in your skin, it can affect your hair as well. Stick to fruits and vegetables, and avoid foods such as fried foods, sugar, and dairy, which can all contribute to excess sebum production.